To help reinforce the lessons of The Upside Down Show, here are some play-at-home ideas based on each episode written by Anna Housley Juster, M.A., Director of Content for Sesame Street and The Upside Down Show.
Episode 113: Mini Golf
Skills Developed:
Symbolic Reasoning
Critical Thinking
You can extend your child's symbolic reasoning and other critical-thinking skills by investigating and playing with everyday objects at home. Start with one object--such as a ball, spoon, empty box, plastic cup, or paper towel roll--and ask your child questions like, "What color is it?" and "How does it feel?" Then think of innovative ways to use this object. For example, a paper towel tube could be a steam roller or a baton, and a plastic cup could be a megaphone.
Take your child's lead during pretend play. If he is using a block as a telephone, pick up another block and give him a call. Promote this play by finding multiple ways to use everyday objects. Start with one object such as a ball, spoon, or empty box. Encourage your child to think of all of the things that this object could be.
This open-ended play is extremely valuable in promoting your child's overall development, and it offers you a window into your child's thinking.
